Sorry Lap Pools, Janet Leigh’s Lagoon-Like ‘50s Alternative Is So Much More Charming (And Replicable No Matter Where You Live)

For the past 20 years or so, pools have been getting sleeker, smaller, and more streamlined. At Homes & Gardens, we're rejecting this shift. Instead, we're turning to the more traditional influence of the pools of the past, starting with Janet Leigh.

Archival images of Janet Leigh's hilltop home in California from 1954 show a pool not shaped like a long, narrow rectangle, but more like a bean. As opposed to more modern patios, this pool idea has serious character and style. The curved edges flow seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and create synergy with the poolside patio. Its white lines complement the white of the house and the curved shapes of Janet's retro pool furniture.

As we consider the design and shapes we want to incorporate into our pool areas this summer, Janet's idea emerges as a top contender. Here's a sneak peek into her '50s style, an edit of retro-inspired pool furniture to get you started tapping into the look, and some expert quotes to dive into why it works so well.

Shop The Retro Pool Edit

No matter the shape of your pool (or if you have a pool at all) these nostalgia-inspired accents are perfect for bringing a striking retro energy to your poolside. They reject the clean minimalist lines of the 2020s for more textured styles.

A huge part of what makes Janet Leigh's pool design so striking is its connection to nature, and this effect can be recreated in any backyard. Isabel Fernandez, Director of Quorn Stone: 'Even without installing a full pool, homeowners are embracing the look and lifestyle of poolside living, through considered materials inside and out. Today’s interpretation of a pool-ready home goes beyond water – it’s about creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, spa-like finishes, and surfaces that evoke holiday living.' Choosing beautiful, nostalgic outdoor furniture is a part of tapping into this influence.

Opting for the highest quality materials, as we see at Janet's home, rather than modern plastics, also helps to elevate the outdoor area. Isabel advises: 'The key to choosing the right paving and tiles to achieve the pool-ready look is continuity, texture, and practicality for the given climate.'

You can also recreate the lagoon-like feel of Janet Leigh's pool on a modern patio using the subtle curves of rounded outdoor furniture.

Jonny Brierley, Managing Director of NUMA, shares, 'Curved outdoor furniture has been increasing in popularity and continues to grow as homeowners look to create garden spaces that feel softer and more relaxed. Rounded silhouettes naturally encourage conversation and help spaces feel more welcoming, especially in outdoor settings where the goal is often to unwind and spend time with loved ones.'

He continues: 'We are seeing a growing preference for pieces with gentle curves because they bring a sense of fluidity and movement to a garden while still maintaining a clean and contemporary look. They also complement the natural, flowing shapes of plants and trees, making the space feel more organic and considered.'

Retro inspiration offers ideas for how to incorporate more unique sillhouettes and influences into your modern outdoor space. As nostalgia flares, this summer is the perfect time to start looking.